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Using Picture Books to Support Conversations with Your Kids & Students About Empathy
Standing in someone else's shoes, understanding their point of view, connecting to their mind and heart takes practice. And what if our children are born with a brain that makes this tricky for them? This is a deeper skill that a lot of people take for granted. So often we just assume that our kids will be able to see things from other people's, or other characters', perspectives. Movies, books, and interactions with peers and people around them are all great ways to help teach and reinforce this very important skill.
You can check out all of my picture book recommendations for empathy and more on my Amazon Storefront!
A Friend for Henry
Jenn Bailey
I can't tell you how much I adore this heartwarming story about Henry, a boy on the autism spectrum, as he navigates the challenges of making friends at school. Watching my students connect with Henry's experiences and learn about the importance of understanding and accepting differences is truly magical. "A Friend for Henry" has become my go-to for teaching about social cues, expected behaviors, and showing empathy towards others.
I Am Human
Susan Verde
If there's one book that I believe every classroom needs, it's "I Am Human." The beautiful illustrations and powerful message celebrating our shared human experience never fail to captivate my students. Reading this book with my first graders has led to some of the most meaningful conversations about putting yourself in someone else's shoes and supporting one another. Trust me, you won't regret adding this one to your collection!
Each Kindness
Jacqueline Woodson
"Each Kindness" holds a special place in my heart. This poignant story about the lasting impact of our actions and the power of kindness always strikes a chord with my students. As we follow the protagonist's journey from ignoring a new student to regretting her missed opportunities for friendship, my students can't help but reflect on their own choices and the importance of creating a welcoming classroom community.
The Invisible Boy
Trudy Ludwig
Year after year, I find myself reaching for "The Invisible Boy." There's just something about Brian's story that resonates with my students. As they watch Brian go from feeling overlooked and invisible to being included and appreciated by his classmates, the illustrations beautifully reflect his transformation from black and white to full color. The discussions this book inspires about the power of empathy and inclusion are simply unforgettable.
These four books (and so many others) have become staples in my house and classroom libraries, and I find myself reaching for them year after year. The stories they tell and the lessons they impart never lose their impact, and I'm always amazed by the depth of understanding and compassion my students display after reading them. Of course, there are countless other incredible books out there that can help us teach empathy to our students, and I'm always on the lookout for new additions to my collection. There's no shortage of wonderful literature that can help our students develop this essential skill. As educators, it's up to us to seek out these resources and incorporate them into our teaching practice, creating a classroom environment where empathy, understanding, and kindness are SELebrated and nurtured every day.
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